Getting Heritage Right

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Sarah Hitchings of The Residence Collection discusses the effectiveness of nurturing relationships with its network of fabricators of heritage windows for the best end result for consumers.

In England alone, there are almost 3,000sq.km dedicated to designated conservation areas, meaning thousands of residential and commercial buildings face strict guidelines when upgrading windows.

Our window systems have been specifically designed to replicate the documented historical window designs from the 19th century.

By extracting these key principles, shapes and dimensions for our window systems, The Residence Collection has been able to create a market-leading timber alternative with modern technology, performance and virtually maintenance-free materials.

 

Relationships

However, it takes more than a leading window design to sympathetically upgrade period properties in line with the strict planning guidelines. The relationship between the designer and the fabricator is key before the product reaches an installer.

Regardless of whether a project is a modern or heritage property, we must ensure the manufacturing of The Residence Collection frames is at the very best it can be. Hence, when fabricators join our network, they are immediately introduced to our technical team for best practices in manufacturing as well as guidance on the best manufacturing method for their business and the markets they want to serve.

We find that having this open communication from the very beginning means our fabricators have a great understanding when it comes to product expectations, as well as the support available for them to succeed with our window systems.

 

Future-proofing

Earlier this year, the government announced a review of the barriers surrounding future-proofing heritage properties, which is a welcome review for those in the fenestration industry specialising in period buildings.

We work with fabricators and installers who are experienced with planning applications for listed buildings or within conservation areas. Once the barriers have been reviewed, beautifully crafted, energy-efficient windows will be key for the heritage sector.

While this is positive, it is key for us to continue our relationship with our fabricators, communicating our knowledge to them and ensuring that the best possible manufacturing of The Residence Collection windows is achieved.

 

Quality and thermal efficiency

As an industry, we must continue to encourage high-quality, energy-efficient installations in these types of properties, so we can support the preservation of these homes while being a part of the solution. Our design and relationships with top-quality fabricators will be key in making this happen.

All three of our window systems (R7, R9 and R2) are ahead of the curve when it comes to energy efficiency ratings for heritage homes. Offering A++ energy rating, with U-values as low as 0.74W/m²K for triple glazing and 1.2W/m²K for double glazing as standard. And, with Future Homes Standard 2025 regulations stating new builds must have a U-value of 1.2W/m²K or below, The Residence Collection is already surpassing this guideline.

We understand the need to prioritise energy efficiency while maintaining the aesthetics of a property, particularly those within conservation areas or with a historic background. With 26 colourway options available across three systems, fabricators and installers can meet the traditional requirements of a heritage property while also meeting the British building regulations requirements.

 

Picture: The Residence Collection has a dedicated network of UK based fabricators of all sizes. Find out how to join The Residence Collection’s fabricator network at www.residencecollectiontrade.co.uk/fabricators

Article written by Cathryn Ellis
08th August 2024

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